You may already know that brushing and flossing twice daily removes plaque and bacteria to safeguard your child’s grin from common dental issues like gum disease and cavities. However, it’s not the only way to prevent potential problems from developing.
Your dentist can also provide sealants to shield their teeth from harm. If you’re unsure what this treatment is or how it can help, continue reading to learn about 3 frequently asked questions and their answers!
Question #1: What Are Dental Sealants?
The American Dental Association recommends taking your child for a routine checkup and exam with their dentist every six months to guide their still-developing smile. Doing so allows their provider to monitor their condition so they can address any areas of concern, like thinning enamel, before they progress into real issues.
One easy way to keep tooth decay at bay is with dental sealants. These thin, protective coatings are typically applied over the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to avoid caries. They’re made from resin and glass powder and essentially function as ‘raincoats’ that keep unhealthy bacteria away from your teeth.
Question #2: How Do Sealants Differ from Fillings?
Although both dental sealants and fillings are used to address cavities, these two treatments serve different purposes. The former is a safety measure that’s applied to still-healthy teeth to protect against the possibility of future decay. It’s often recommended as soon as your kid’s molars arrive to keep them from developing issues over time, though adults may also benefit from having them placed.
Meanwhile, dental fillings are restorations used to mend already-developed cavities in your child’s mouth. Their dentist applies color-matched composite resin to your enamel in layers to replace the eroded materials then hardens it with a special curing light. This restores their tooth’s appearance and functionality simultaneously.
Question #3: How Long do Dental Sealants Last?
It’s natural to wonder how long your little one will benefit from having a dental sealant placed. Their lifespan depends significantly on your child’s dental condition. These incredibly durable shields can survive 10+ years with the right maintenance.
You can keep your kid’s sealants in excellent condition by helping them brush and floss twice daily. Regularly removing plaque and bacteria strengthens keeps their teeth and gums clean to preserve their dental work. Also, you may want to limit their access to hard or sticky foods that can damage their sealants or attract additional germs that can erode their enamel.
Scheduling a checkup every six months allows your dentist to monitor your child’s condition, including their sealants, to ensure they don’t develop any issues!
About the Practice
Patients at Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence benefit from a team of experts who enjoy helping patients of all ages build their happiest, healthiest smiles. Whether you and your family need preventative care or have cavities that need to be addressed, they can help. They offer a full range of services at one convenient location and take the time to get to know you so they can customize treatment plans to meet your unique needs. If your child needs a checkup or has developed decay, you can request a consultation on the website or call (847) 259-1111.